The Environment Agency has announced a £53 million fund for urban and rural tree planting in streets, parks and places near where people live and work.
The aim is to cool towns and cities and boost biodiversity by planting up to 500,000 trees between March 2027 and March 2030.
The Environment Agency say that trees are the most effective way to protect against extreme heat and in cities, they can reduce temperatures by as much as 4°C.
Just one mature tree can intercept over 15,000 litres of rainwater per year, therefore reducing the risk of flood and water run off risks during storms.
The project is said to support the countries progress towards net zero targets as it will help communities adapt to climate change by creating greener local environments.
Investment in Local Nature Recovery Strategies will also boost progress towards the government’s international commitment to conserve and manage at least 30% of land for nature by 2030.
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